Zhong Guo Neng Yuan Wang·2025-11-12 03:07Core Insights - The successful operation of the Suzhou project marks a transition of molten salt energy storage from theoretical exploration to practical application in the coal power sector [2][4] - The combination of "molten salt energy storage + coal power" has activated a market potential worth billions, with prospects for expansion into high-heat consumption sectors like steel and chemicals, potentially reaching a market scale of hundreds of billions [1][4] Project Overview - The Suzhou power plant features the largest molten salt storage capacity in China, with two large cylindrical molten salt tanks, one for high-temperature and one for low-temperature, each over 26 meters in diameter and nearly 15 meters in height [1] - The project utilizes a steam heating molten salt storage system that allows for the separation of heat production and consumption, enhancing the flexibility of coal power plants [2][4] Technical Innovations - The system developed by Dongfang Boiler integrates two 10,000-ton molten salt storage tanks, achieving a heat storage capacity of 1,000 MWh [2] - The project has demonstrated a significant reduction in minimum technical output from 50% to 30%, with peak load capacity increased from 80% to 100% [2][4] - The thermal efficiency of the steam heating molten salt storage system exceeds 95%, significantly improving upon electric heating methods [4] Market Potential - There are approximately 1.1 billion kilowatts of existing coal power units in China, and if 30% of these were equipped with molten salt storage systems, it could lead to market investments worth billions [4] - Over 40% of coal power groups are currently evaluating the implementation of molten salt storage projects, indicating a potential explosive growth in the industry [4] Challenges to Scaling - High customization requirements for different coal power units necessitate tailored designs for molten salt systems, complicating widespread adoption [6][7] - Initial investment costs for molten salt storage projects are significant, with the Suzhou project costing approximately 340 million yuan, which may deter some power plants [6] - The absence of national standards for molten salt storage tanks poses safety risks and complicates design and construction processes [6][9] Recommendations for Development - Industry experts suggest incorporating molten salt storage into new power system construction plans and establishing clear compensation mechanisms for peak shaving [8][9] - Technological innovations aimed at reducing costs and improving efficiency are crucial for the large-scale promotion of molten salt storage [8] - Establishing national standards for design, construction, and acceptance of molten salt storage tanks is essential for ensuring safety and efficiency [9]